Flow Control Device

ABSTRACT

A flow control mechanism/device is provided for regulating the flow of fluid from a container or vessel, e.g., a plastic bottle containing a fluid such as water or the like. The flow control mechanism may be advantageously employed in a variety of applications where it is desired to dispense and/or access fluids in a controlled manner, e.g., applications wherein a liquid, colloidal system, suspension or the like is to be dispensed/accessed in a controlled manner. The flow control mechanisms are particularly advantageous as animal/pet drinking aids that provide animals/pets with convenient and controlled access to fluid refreshment, e.g., when away from a home-based water bowl. An exemplary control mechanism includes an inner cap member, an overcap member, and a ball captured therebetween. The overcap member is adapted for axial translation relative to the inner cap member, thereby facilitating one-handed manipulation. Adapters may be provided to facilitate mounting of the disclosed flow control mechanism/device relative to containers/vessels of differing design/geometry. A releasable locking mechanism may be provided to prevent the flow control mechanism/device from becoming inadvertently operational.

1. CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Reference is made to previously filed non-provisional patentapplications, as follows: (i) an application entitled “Multipurpose FlowControl Device”, that was filed on Oct. 10, 2006, and assigned Ser. No.10/798,985, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,117,818; (ii) an application entitled“Multipurpose Flow Control Device,” that was filed on Jun. 16, 2003, andassigned Ser. No. 10/462,442, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,758,165; and (iii) anapplication entitled “Pet Drinking Aid Device,” that was filed on Jun.24, 2002, and assigned Ser. No. 10/178,606, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,718,912.The entire contents of the foregoing patents are incorporated byreference herein.

2. TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a device for use with a container orvessel containing a fluid and, more particularly, to a device for usewith a bottle to assist in dispensing such fluid in a controlled manner,e.g., to assist an animal in drinking therefrom. The present disclosurefurther relates to a container and/or vessel that includes anadvantageous flow regulation device.

3. BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Fluids are routinely contained within containers and/or vessels, e.g.,plastic and/or glass bottles. To gain access to the fluids containedwith a container/vessel, a cap is generally removed and the fluid ispoured or otherwise dispensed therefrom. Thus, for example, in the caseof plastic beverage bottles, a cap is generally screw threaded onto thethroat of the bottle which can be removed, as desired, when it isdesired to access the contents thereof. The beverage is generallyconsumed directly from the bottle, by way of a straw, or by pouring thebeverage into a cup or glass.

In certain circumstances, beverage/water bottles may be provided with acontrol mechanism that permits fluid to flow therefrom upon axialmovement of an annular flange relative to a fixed central abutmentmember. By moving the annular flange away from the bottle, an annularfluid flow path around the central abutment member is created. Axialmovement of the annular flange is generally limited by a stop mechanism,thereby ensuring that the annular flange does not become separated fromthe bottle/control mechanism. Once the control mechanism is in the“open” position, fluid may be dispensed from the bottle under the actionof gravity by tilting or inverting the bottle in combination withsqueezing and/or suction forces. Return movement of the annular flangetoward the bottle may be undertaken to “close” the bottle, i.e., preventfurther fluid flow therefrom.

The foregoing bottle designs are generally effective for humanconsumption of fluids. However, such designs are not effective for ahost of other applications. Thus, for example, pet owners involved inproviding their pets with recreation encounter a variety of issues. Forexample, dog owners encounter issues associated with satisfying a dog'sthirst when dog and owner are away from the dog's water bowl, e.g., whenon a walk or engaged in athletic/recreational activities. It is ofteninconvenient and/or impractical when not at home to bring along and setup a bowl or some other container from which a pet can drink. Whilenaturally occurring sources of fluid refreshment are sometimesavailable, e.g., ponds, puddles and the like, more frequently pet ownersare left to their own ingenuity in attempting to address their dog'sthirst when remote from the home-based water bowl.

Efforts have been devoted in the prior art to developing devices and/orsystems for providing fluid refreshment to pets. For example,significant efforts have been expended in providing fluid dispensers forcaged pets, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and the like. U.S.Pat. No. 3,529,575 to Schalk et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,771,496 to Atchley,and U.S. Pat. No. 5,363,802 to Huff disclose drinking bottles that maybe detachably mounted to a pet's cage. The fluids from the discloseddrinking bottles are introduced into the cage by way of an angled tubethat fits through openings defined in the wire cage. Control and/orregulation of fluid flow into the cage is provided by a displaceableball (Atchley '496 patent and Huff '802 patent), a valve assembly(Schalk '575 patent), or multiple balls operating in conjunction toestablish a seal.

Prior art efforts have also been devoted to developing systems for useby larger pets, e.g., dogs. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,301,634 to Hodiscloses an animal feeder designed for convenient mounting to ahorizontal wire member, the feeder including a ball 60 disposed in atubular extension 43.

A pet drinking device offering portability to pet owners is disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 6,293,226 to Hwang. The device of the Hwang '226 patentincludes a bottle having a threaded mouth and a cover that engages thethreaded mouth. An unsecured gasket is positioned between the cover andthe bottle. The cover includes a main body that is internally threadedto engage the mouth of the bottle, and a tube. The tube defines anoutwardly threaded portion at an end thereof. An internally threadedsleeve is mounted to the outwardly threaded portion of the tube. Anunsecured sealing ring is positioned between the tube and the sleeve. Aball and washer are positioned within the sleeve and a lid is tetheredto the cover. A belt is also provided for mounting the Hwang drinkingdevice to a stationary structure, e.g., a hook on a wall.

The present applicant has also obtained patent protection with respectto advantageous flow control devices. See, U.S. Pat. No. 7,117,818;U.S.Pat. No. 6,758,165; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,718,912. The entire contents ofthese patents have been incorporated by reference herein.

Despite the efforts referenced hereinabove, a need remains foradvantageous control mechanisms for regulating the flow of fluid from acontainer or vessel that facilitates user control, e.g., between aclosed and an open orientation.

4. SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure is directed to a control mechanism for regulatingthe flow of fluid from a container or vessel, e.g., a plastic bottlecontaining a fluid such as water or the like. The disclosed controlmechanism may be advantageously employed in a variety of applicationswhere it is desired to dispense and/or access fluids in a controlledmanner, e.g., applications wherein a liquid, colloidal system,suspension or the like is to be dispensed/accessed in a controlledmanner. The disclosed control mechanism may be provided as an accessoryitem, i.e., an item that is adapted to be secured to acontainer/vessel/bottle. The disclosed control mechanism may also bepre-mounted to a container/vessel/bottle, e.g., in the manufacturingprocess. In such circumstance, the present disclosure is directed to thecontainer/vessel/bottle in combination with such advantageous controlmechanism. Still further, the disclosed control mechanism may beadvantageously employed with other fluid delivery systems, e.g., a fluiddelivery system/apparatus that is constructed/designed in a manneranalogous to an I.V. fluid delivery system (e.g., gravity and/orpump-fed), a fluid delivery stalk or tube, or the like.

In an exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an animalor pet drinking aid that provides animals/pets with convenient andcontrolled access to fluid refreshment, e.g., when away from ahome-based water bowl. The disclosed drinking aid overcomes difficultiesassociated with typical water bottles that deliver uncontrolled fluidflow when fully or partially inverted. The uncontrolled fluid flowprovided by such conventional water bottles often finds its way into apet's windpipe or onto the ground, regardless of the effort and careexpended in attempting to address the pet's thirst. The discloseddrinking aid also facilitates operational use, e.g., providing effectivecontrol functionality for movement between a “closed” orientation and an“open” orientation (including varying levels of flow therethrough), andvice versa.

In an exemplary embodiment, the disclosed pet drinking aid generallyincludes a cap that is adapted to be detachably mounted to afluid-containing bottle. The cap may be advantageously threaded onto afluid-containing bottle. Alternatively, the disclosed cap may include anelastomeric sleeve that facilitates detachably mounting the cap to abottle, thereby obviating the need for cooperative threads as betweenthe cap and the bottle. The disclosed cap also includes an internal ballthat advantageously restricts and/or moderates the flow of fluid from abottle when positioned at various angles of inversion. The internal ballis typically restrained or captured within the cap by a circumferentialflange or rim. An elastomeric, e.g., rubber, washer may be positionedadjacent and/or in engagement therewith. The washer (when present)provides an enhanced fluid seal when a pet (or other user) is notaccessing fluid contained within the container. Thus, for example, thebottle may generally be inverted without fluid leakage due to sealinginteraction between the ball and the elastomeric washer, and between thewasher and the rim of the cap.

Of note, the disclosed sealing function may be also be achieved througha two-shot molding process, whereby a sealing material (e.g., a rubberor other elastic material) is blended with a conventional polymericmaterial (e.g., polypropylene) prior to injection into a suitablyconfigured mold. Such two-shot molding technique is effective to impartsealing and/or leakage-reduction properties to the region adjacent theinternal ball captured adjacent thereto.

In an exemplary embodiment, a flow control mechanism is disclosed foruse with a vessel/container/bottle and includes a lower cap member,overcap member and a ball that is captured therebetween. The lower capmember is adapted to be mounted to a vessel, container or bottle, e.g.,by screw threading, a flexible sleeve or the like. The overcap member isadapted to be movably mounted relative to the lower cap. The balltypically rests on an internal flange or shelf formed in the lower capmember and, depending on the relative location of the overcap member,either prevents fluid from flowing through the control mechanism orpermits fluid to flow therearound in a regulated fashion.

More particularly, in an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed controlmechanism, the overcap member may be “tightened” such that the ball isprevented from movement relative to the lower cap/overcap members,thereby preventing fluid flow therearound. By moving the overcap memberaway from the lower cap member, the ball is freed up for rotational andaxial (and limited lateral) motion within the space defined between thelower cap/overcap members, thereby permitting fluid flow from thevessel/container/bottle and through an opening defined in the overcapmember.

Exemplary flow control mechanisms/devices according to the presentdisclosure are defined by an overcap and an inner cap member whichtogether define an internal flow passage. The flow controlmechanism/device is adapted to be mounted with respect to bottle/vessel,either directly or indirectly, e.g., by way of an adapter. The flowcontrol mechanism/device may be detachably mounted with respect to thebottle/vessel or fixedly mounted with respect thereto. Thus, flowcontrol mechanisms/devices according to the present disclosure mayfunction as accessory devices for selective engagement with abottle/vessel or may be integrally and/or fixedly mounted with respectto such bottle/vessel, e.g., at the time of fabrication.

A ball is captured between the overcap and the inner cap members tofacilitate and control flow therethrough. The overcap is repositionablerelative to the inner cap such that at least two relative positions maybe defined. However, in exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure,more than two relative positions may be defined between the overcap andthe inner cap members, such that fluid flow through the flow controlmechanism/device is prevented in a first position (i.e., a “closed”configuration), and is permitted in a second position (i.e., an “open”configuration). Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure permitthe overcap and inner cap members to define a plurality of “open”configurations, such that varying levels of fluid flow are permittedthrough the flow control mechanism/device.

According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, theovercap includes a sidewall that is positioned at least in part radiallyoutward of the side wall of the inner cap member. The overcap is adaptedfor axial translation relative to the inner cap member such that, in afirst position (“closed” configuration), the ball captured between theovercap and inner cap member substantially (or completely) obstructs theflow passage through the overcap and/or inner cap member, therebypreventing fluid flow. The axial translation between the overcap and theinner cap member further permits the overcap to assume one or moreadditional relative positions (each an “open” configuration), such thatfluid flow is permitted around the ball captured therebetween. Axialtranslation of the overcap member relative to the inner cap member isgenerally limited by at least one stop mechanism defined therebetween.

In exemplary embodiments of the disclosed flow controlmechanisms/devices, the inner cap member defines one or more annularridges that extend radially outward. The annular ridge(s) are adapted tointeract with an inwardly directed annular projection formed on and/ordefined by the overcap member, such that axial translation of theovercap member relative to the inner cap member requires the inwardlydirected annular projection of the overcap member to “snap” past orotherwise override the outwardly directed annular ridge(s) formed onand/or defined by the inner cap member into the intermediate valleyregion(s) therebetween. Of note, in implementations where the inner capmember includes/defines a plurality of outwardly directed annularridges, such plurality of annular ridges may be equally spaced along theaxis of the inner cap member or unequally spaced relative thereto. Theovercap member may also define a plurality of axially spaced, inwardlydirected annular projections. Such plurality of inwardly directedannular projections are adapted to interact with the annular ridges andintermediate valley region formed on the inner cap member, therebyproviding greater sealing, security and/or stability of the overcapmember as it assumes various positions relative to the inner cap member.

Structural interaction between the inwardly directed annularprojection(s) of the overcap member and the annular ridge(s)/valleyregions of the inner cap member further function to enhance the sealingfunctionality therebetween. The disclosed sealing function may be alsobe achieved through a two-shot molding process, whereby a sealingmaterial (e.g., a rubber or other elastic material) is blended with aconventional polymeric material (e.g., polypropylene) prior to injectioninto a suitably configured mold. Such two-shot molding technique iseffective to impart sealing and/or leakage-reduction properties toeither or all of the inwardly directed annular projections of theovercap and the annular ridges and intermediate valley region(s) of theinner cap. The sealing functionality associated with the overcap/innercap member interaction described herein is generally more effective ascompared to threading interaction, wherein leakage may occur based onfluid travel along the threads, e.g., when the vessel/container issqueezed, partially inverted and/or in transition from a non-inverted toan inverted orientation.

The disclosed flow control mechanism/device may also define a lockingmechanism that permits the overcap member to be “locked” relative to theinner cap member, e.g., in a “closed” configuration. In an exemplaryembodiment, the locking mechanism may include a plurality of downwardlyextending legs that extend from the overcap member. The downwardlyextending legs advantageously define engagement tabs/flanges that areadapted to fit within corresponding openings defined in the base elementassociated with the inner cap member. The tabs may be released bysqueezing at appropriate points around the overcap to allow overcap tobe moved and/or the locking effect may be overcome by exerting extrapulling force, thereby deflecting the tabs for release from engagementwith the openings. Of note, the legs/tabs may be associated with, andextend upwardly from, the base element. In such alternative embodiment,openings/slots may be formed at or near the lower face of the overcap toreleasably receive such upwardly extending legs/tabs, thereby reversingthe structural arrangement but maintaining the optional lockingfunctionality described herein.

In a further alternative embodiment, the overcap member may be rotatedrelative to the inner cap member to place the tabs/flanges in anobstructed/interference position relative to the base element of theinner cap member. Rotation of the overcap member in the oppositedirection may bring the tabs/flanges into alignment with the openingsdefined in the base element of the inner cap member, thereby permittingaxial translation of the overcap relative to the inner cap, i.e.,“unlocking” of the flow control mechanism/device. Such rotationallocking and unlocking of the disclosed legs/tabs is effective whetherthe legs/tabs extend downwardly from the overcap or upwardly from thebase element (for interaction with corresponding openings defined on theopposite structure).

In a further optional locking design according to the presentdisclosure, tabs may be mounted and/or molded with respect to the baseelement of the inner cap member or in conjunction with an annular ridgedefined on the inner cap member, such tabs being oriented in a radiallyoutward manner such that the tabs are adapted to releasably engage theovercap member. Such engagement may involve the tabs engaging (i)opening(s) formed in the overcap member, (ii) an annular depressionformed in the overcap member, and/or (iii) the annular projectionsdefined by the overcap member. In exemplary embodiments, it iscontemplated that the tabs could be released by squeezing the overcapmember at radially offset positions relative to the tab locations. Thus,in an exemplary implementation, two tabs that are spaced byapproximately 180° may be provided on the inner cap member and releasethereof may be achieved by pressing inward on the overcap member at twoopposed locations that are each offset by approximately 90° fromrespective tab locations. In this way, the overcap member is caused toflex inward at the points of compression, and an associated outwarddeflection is effected in the areas interacting with the tabs, therebyfreeing such tabs from the corresponding openings/slots/depressionformed in the outer cap member. Alternatively, the engagement may beovercome by applying adequate force to the overcap member.

The disclosed flow control mechanism/device may include variousadditional features, structures and/or functions. For example, theovercap member may define an outwardly directed structure to facilitateuser interaction therewith. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, anoutwardly extending rim may be defined at or near a distal end thereofto facilitate a user's grasp thereof to effect axial translationrelative to the inner cap member. In addition, the disclosed flowcontrol mechanism may be adapted to interact and function with a stalkor tube to facilitate fluid delivery, e.g., to facilitate hydration ofan elderly patient, injured animal or the like.

The disclosed flow control mechanism/device offers substantialuser-related benefits. For example, the ability to open/close the flowcontrol mechanism/device through axial translation of an overcap memberrelative to an inner cap member facilitates single-hand actuation. Inaddition, interaction between the ridge(s) and intermediate valley(s) ofthe inner cap member and the projection(s) of the overcap enhancessealing when compared to existing threaded applications and permits auser to position the flow control mechanism/device for a desirable levelof fluid flow. Optional inclusion of a locking mechanism, as describedherein, ensures that the flow control mechanism/device provides secureclosure prior to and/or in between uses thereof. Still further, theoptional inclusion of adapter(s) permits the disclosed flow controlmechanism/device to be used with and detachably connected tovessels/containers having differing neck designs/geometries. Indicia maybe provided on the flow control mechanism, e.g., on the inner capmember, to communicate the degree to which the flow controlmechanism/device is “open” based on the extent of axial translation ofthe overcap member relative to the inner cap member.

Flow control mechanisms according to the present disclosure arerelatively inexpensive to fabricate and provide an efficient, safe andreliable way to dispense fluids from a container/vessel/bottle and/orprovide animals/pets with fluids from a bottle, particularly ininstances and places where a bowl or other container is simply not afeasible or convenient choice. Thus, according to the presentdisclosure, a flow control mechanism and an animal/pet drinking aid areprovided that allow users to avoid undesirable situations where the petmay gag or choke on fluids supplied from a typical water bottle. Thedisclosed flow control mechanism and animal/pet drinking aidadvantageously overcome the potential for waste and spillage generallyassociated with fluids provided from containers/vessels/bottles, e.g.,fluids provided to pets in portable water bowls and the like.

Additional features, benefits and functionalities associated withcontrol mechanisms and animal/pet drinking aids according to the presentdisclosure will be apparent from the detailed description which follows.

5. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The features, benefits and functionalities of the present disclosurewill become more readily apparent to those skilled in the art from thefollowing detailed description of preferred embodiment(s) whenconsidered together with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a flow controldevice, adapter and a top portion of a bottle/vessel, according to thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a component associated with theexemplary flow control device of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2 is a side view of a flow control device according to the presentdisclosure;

FIGS. 3A and 3B are schematic views of an alternative flow controldevice according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a side view of a portion of an exemplary locking mechanismaccording to the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of a second portion of an exemplary lockingmechanism according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of structures that cooperate to define alocking mechanism according to the present disclosure; and

FIGS. 7 and 8 are schematic views of exemplary implementations of thedisclosed flow control devices with fluid delivery systems.

6. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S)

The flow control mechanisms/devices of the present disclosureadvantageously regulate fluid flow from a container, vessel, bottle orthe like. The flow control mechanism/device may be provided as a freestanding item, e.g., an accessory unit/assembly for independent purchaseand use, or as part of an integrated product offering, e.g., permanentlyor detachably secured to a container, vessel or bottle. The disclosedflow control mechanisms/devices may be employed in a variety ofapplications, e.g., to moderate and/or regulate flow of liquids,colloidal systems, suspensions and the like. For example, flow controlmechanisms/devices according to the present disclosure may be employedin systems wherein the fluid is to be consumed and in systems whereinthe fluid is to be applied to a surface or substrate, e.g.,deodorants/anti-perspirants, fluid application systems such as wettingdevices for mailing applications, colorant dispensers, inking mechanismsand the like. Thus, the disclosed flow control mechanisms/devices may beemployed in any application where it is desired to regulate the flow ofa fluid's egress from a container, vessel, bottle or the like.

In an exemplary application of the present disclosure, the flow controlmechanisms/devices may be employed in connection with an animal or petdrinking aid. The animal/pet drinking aids of the present disclosureprovide pets, e.g., dogs, cats, ferrets, rodents and the like, withconvenient and controlled access to fluid refreshment, e.g., when awayfrom a home-based water bowl. As discussed in greater detail below, thedisclosed animal/pet drinking aids overcome difficulties associated withtypical water bottles that deliver uncontrolled fluid flow when fully orpartially inverted. The uncontrolled fluid flow provided by suchconventional water bottles often finds its way into a pet's windpipe oronto the ground, regardless of the effort and care expended inattempting to address the pet's thirst. The disclosed animal/petdrinking aids are advantageously sized and dimensioned to be utilizedwith any standard size fluid bottle, as are known in the art.Adjustments to the size and/or dimensions of the disclosed animal/petdrinking aids may be made to facilitate use with non-conventionallysized fluid bottles, as is apparent from the detailed descriptionprovided herein. In addition, mounting adapters may be provided tofacilitate mounting of the disclosed flow control mechanism/device tobottles/vessels having differing neck geometries and/or structuralcharacteristics.

Although the exemplary flow control mechanisms/devices disclosed hereinmay be referred to and/or disclosed with reference to use as petdrinking aids, it is to be understood that such devices/structures maybe employed in a variety of applications, e.g., in systems wherein afluid is to be consumed and/or in systems wherein a fluid is to beapplied to a surface or substrate, as noted above. Accordingly, theexemplary pet drinking aids described hereinafter are illustrative offlow control mechanisms/devices having a host of advantageousapplications, including without limitation, as pet drinking aids.

With reference to FIGS. 1, 1A and 2, an exemplary flow control device100 according to the present disclosure is schematically depicted foruse in conjunction with a conventional bottle 50. Flow control device100 may be used, inter alia, as a pet drinking aid. The bottle 50includes a neck 52 that defines outwardly threaded portion 54.Circumferential ridge(s) may be defined on the outside of neck 52, as isconventional, to provide tamper resistance to bottle 50 throughinteraction with a conventional cap (not shown), as is known in the art.

In exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, an optional adapter70 is provided for use in facilitating the overall assembly of flowcontrol device 100 relative to bottle 50. Adapter 70 typically definesan internal flow passage, e.g., a substantially cylindrical flowpassage, and is advantageously adapted to facilitate mounting of flowcontrol device 100 to bottle(s)/vessel(s) 50 of one or more neck sizesand/or geometries. For example, fluid-containing bottles/vessels mayfeature different thread configurations and/or pitches, and/or differentouter diameters. Individual adapters 70 may be provided according to thepresent disclosure, each adapter including a female attachment region 72and a male attachment region 74. The female attachment region 72 mayinclude internal thread(s) (not pictured) to facilitate engagement withthe outwardly threaded portion 54 of bottle/vessel 50. Alternatively,female attachment region 72 may take the form of an elastic engagementportion that is adapted to resiliently engage outwardly threaded portion54 of bottle/vessel 50 (or an unthreaded neck region of abottle/vessel), i.e., in a non-threaded manner. Male attachment region74 generally defines an outwardly threaded portion 76 that is adapted tothreadingly engage flow control device 100.

With reference to flow control device 100, the overall assemblygenerally includes two (3) distinct components: inner cap member 102,overcap member 104 and ball 105. With further reference to FIGS. 1 and1A, inner cap member 102 includes a base element 106 and an upwardlyextending cylindrical region 108. A flow passage 110 is defined throughinner cap member 102. Although not pictured, base element 106 typicallyincludes inwardly directed thread(s) for engagement with adapter 70and/or threaded portion 54 of bottle 50. Alternatively, base element 106may be associated with an elastomeric sleeve or similar structure tofacilitate mounting with respect to bottle 50.

Exemplary base element 106 also includes vertically oriented knurls 112to facilitate use thereof, e.g., rotational movement of base element 106(and inner cap member 102 as a whole) relative to bottle 50. Knurls 73may also be provided on adapter 70 to facilitate such rotational motion.Alternative features and/or structures may be provided to facilitateuser interaction with such element(s), e.g., texturized surfaces, beads,bumps, chevrons and the like. In addition, such features and/orstructures may be omitted entirely without departing from the spirit orscope of the present disclosure.

With particular reference to FIG. 1A, cylindrical region 108 of innercap member 102 generally defines a substantially conical basin 114 forcooperation with and/or receipt of ball 105. The geometric details ofbasin 114 may be selected to best interact with ball 105. Thus, forexample, basin 114 may define an internal radius of curvature thatsubstantially corresponds with the radius of ball 105, therebyfacilitating effective nesting/capture of ball 105 relative to inner capmember 102 when flow control device 100 is fully assembled.

With reference to FIG. 1, exemplary overcap member 104 includes aconical upper region 118, annular rim projection 120, and downwardlyextending side wall 122. Rim projection 120 advantageously facilitatesinteraction with overcap member 104 to effect axial translation thereofrelative to inner cap member 102. The outer surface of upper region 118is generally configured and dimensioned to accommodate flow interactiontherewith, e.g., licking motion by a pet seeking to engage ball 105 soas to cause fluid flow therearound. The inner surface of conical upperregion 118 is advantageously configured and dimensioned to interact withand capture ball 105. Thus, for example, the inner surface of upperregion 118 may define a substantially curved surface characterized by aradius of curvature that substantially corresponds to the radius of ball105. Accordingly, the inner surface of upper region 118 and basin 114 ofinner cap member 102 cooperate to capture ball 105.

Side wall 122 generally defines inwardly directed annular projection 124which is generally positioned at or in close proximity to the proximalend of overcap 104. Of note, annular projection 124 may be continuous indesign, i.e., may circumferentially extend in an uninterrupted andgeometrically consistent manner relative to the inner face of side wall122. Alternatively, annular projection 124 may be interrupted, such thata plurality of distinct annular projections 124 are defined on the innersurface of side wall 122. Still further, annular projection 124 may bevariable in design as it extends circumferentially relative to the innersurface of side wall 122, e.g., the degree to which annular projection124 extends inwardly relative to side wall 122 may vary from annularregion-to-region and/or annular location-to-location.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 1A, inner cap member 102 includes a plurality ofoutwardly directed, spaced ridges 126 that define intermediate valleyregion(s) 128. When flow control device 100 is fully assembled, annularprojection 124 is adapted to interact with spaced ridges 126 and valleyregion(s) 128 to define the position of overcap member 104 relative toinner cap member 102. Thus, in the position depicted in FIG. 1, flowcontrol device 100 is in a “closed” configuration, i.e., the overcap 104is maintained in flow-restrictive engagement with ball 105. To “open”flow control device 100, a user typically grasps annular rim projection120 and applies an “upward” force so as to axially translate overcapmember 104 relative to inner cap 102. Such axial translation isfacilitated by outward deflection of side wall 122 so that annularprojection 124 is able to bypass the annular ridge 126 positionedimmediately upward thereof. Initially, annular projection 124 fallswithin the valley region 128 above such annular ridge 126. However,application of additional upward force on annular rim projection 120will cause further axial travel of overcap element 104 relative to innercap 102. Ultimately, upward axial travel of overcap member 104 relativeto inner cap 102 is prevented by an interior rim stop 130.

When assembling overcap member 104 onto inner cap member 102, annularprojection 124 is pressed downward past interior rim stop 130. Duringsuch assembly process, side wall 122 of overcap member 104 deflectsoutwardly sufficient to bypass interior rim stop 130. However, the forceapplied by a user when repositioning overcap member 104 relative toinner cap member 102 is generally insufficient to overcome the “stop”functionality of interior rim stop 130.

To facilitate movement of annular projection 124 relative to annularridge(s) 126, one or both of such structures may be radiused. Indeed, inan exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, annular projection124 features a radiused geometry so as to facilitate the camminginteraction of annular projection 124 relative to annular ridge(s) 126.Comparably radiused geometries for annular ridge(s) 126 furtherfacilitates such camming action. However, in view of the desired “stop”functionality associated with interior rim stop 130, such rim stopstructure is generally not radiused.

In use, flow control device 100 is mounted with respect to a bottle 50,either directly or by way of an intermediate adapter 70. Alternatively,flow control device 100 may be premounted with respect to bottle 50,e.g., in a non-detachable manner during fabrication thereof. The user isable to adjust/control flow behavior from bottle 50 by adjusting therelative position of overcap member 104 relative to inner cap member102. Thus, when the user desires to “open” flow control device 100 topermit fluid flow from bottle 50, he/she typically grasps annular rimprojection 120 and pulls upward relative to bottle 50. In the absence ofannular rim projection 120, the user is able to grasp overcap member 104at a convenient location and effect axial translation of overcap member104 relative to inner cap member 102.

The degree of fluid flow from bottle 50 is generally controlled by theaxial travel distance imparted to overcap member 104. Thus, greater flowis permitted by axially translating overcap member 104 to a greaterextent, whereas lesser flow is permitted by axially translating overcapmember 104 to a lesser extent. Of note, the relative spacing of annularridge(s) 126 on inner cap member 102 roughly defines the increments ofmovement available to overcap member 104 (together with the geometriccharacteristics of annular projection 124, e.g., the width thereof). Asannular projection 124 travels past annular ridge 124, the user islikely to feel and/or hear a snapping into place of annular projection124 enters a valley region 128. To “close” flow control device 100, theuser moves overcap member 104 to the position shown in FIG. 1, therebyconstricting ball 105 and preventing flow therearound.

Turning to FIGS. 3A and 3B, an alternative flow control device 200 isschematically depicted. Flow control device 200 includes an inner capmember 202, an overcap member 204 and a ball 205 captured therebetween.Unlike flow control device 100 described herein above, flow controldevice 200 includes a plurality of spaced annular projections 224 a, 224b. Each of annular projections 224 a, 224 b is adapted to engage valleyregions 228. The spacing of annular projections 224 a, 224 b and valleyregions 228 is selected so that projections 224 a, 224 b simultaneouslyalign with associated valley regions 228 defined by inner cap member202. In this way, the stabilizing force associated with interactionbetween overcap member 204 and inner cap member 202 is increased. Useand operation of flow control device 200 is substantially unchanged ascompared to flow control device 100, except that multiple annularprojections associated with flow control device 200 enhances thestability and overall strength thereof.

With reference to FIGS. 4-6, an exemplary locking mechanism 300 foroptional inclusion with a flow control mechanism/device of the presentdisclosure is schematically depicted. As noted above, the optionallocking mechanism may take various structural forms. For example, thelocking mechanism may include a plurality of downwardly extending legsthat extend from the overcap member and that define engagementtabs/flanges adapted to fit within corresponding openings defined in thebase element associated with the inner cap member. The tabs may bereleased by squeezing at appropriate points around the overcap to allowthe overcap to be moved and/or the locking effect may be overcome byexerting extra pulling force, thereby deflecting the tabs for releasefrom engagement with the openings. Alternatively, the legs/tabs may beassociated with, and extend upwardly from, the base element. In suchalternative embodiment, openings/slots may be formed at or near thelower face of the overcap to releasably receive such upwardly extendinglegs/tabs, thereby reversing the structural arrangement but maintainingthe optional locking functionality described herein.

Alternatively, the overcap member may be rotated relative to the innercap member to place the tabs/flanges in an obstructed/interferenceposition relative to the base element of the inner cap member. Suchrotational locking and unlocking of the disclosed legs/tabs is effectivewhether the legs/tabs extend downwardly from the overcap or upwardlyfrom the base element (for interaction with corresponding openingsdefined on the opposite structure). Still further, locking tabs may bemounted and/or molded with respect to the inner cap member, such tabsbeing oriented in a radially outward manner such that the tabs may beadapted to releasably engage openings or depressions formed in theovercap member. Such radial tabs could also engage the annularprojection(s) associated with the overcap member. The tabs could bereleased by squeezing the overcap member at radially offset positionsrelative to the tab locations. Two tabs may be defined with respect tothe inner cap member at a 180° spacing and be released by pressinginward on the overcap member at two opposed locations that are eachoffset by approximately 90° from respective tab locations. In this way,the overcap member is caused to flex inward at the points ofcompression, and an associated outward deflection is effected in theareas interacting with the tabs, thereby freeing such tabs from thecorresponding openings/slots formed in the outer cap member.Alternatively, the radially extending tabs may be released fromengagement with the overcap member by applying an adequate force to theovercap member.

As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 4-6, overcap member 304defines downwardly extending legs 306. Each leg 306 defines anengagement tab/flange 308 at an end thereof. With particular referenceto FIGS. 5 and 6, the base 310 of inner cap member 302 defines spacedopenings 312 that form a keyed slot for receipt of respectivetabs/flanges 308 from overcap member 304. Once aligned and introduced toopenings 312, overcap member 304 may be rotated to place tabs/flanges308 in locking engagement with base 310. So oriented, axial translationof overcap member 304 is not permitted relative to inner cap memberunless and until a requisite counter-rotation of overcap member 304relative to inner cap member 302 is undertaken. As such, lockingmechanism 300 functions like a bayonet lock.

The disclosed tabs/flanges 308 may also be used in a non-rotatingmanner. Thus, for example, tabs/flanges 308 may be adapted to engageassociated openings 312 formed in base 310 without rotationtherebetween, and may be freed from such engagement by requisite axialforce being applied to the overcap member, such force being sufficientto overcome the engagement between the overcap member and the inner capmember. Alternative locking mechanisms may be employed without departingfrom the spirit or scope of the present disclosure, as will be readilyapparent to persons skilled in the art.

With reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, exemplary implementations of thedisclosed flow control mechanisms/devices are provided. Thus, withreference to FIG. 7, a disclosed flow control device 400 is mounted withrespect to a fluid delivery apparatus 402 that resembles a conventionalintravenous (I.V.) fluid delivery system. However, unlike traditionalI.V. systems, the disclosed fluid delivery apparatus 402 isadvantageously adapted to deliver a consumable fluid to anindividual/animal. Similarly, with reference to FIG. 8, a disclosed flowcontrol device 500 is mounted with respect to a fluid deliverystalk/tube 502 that may be provided to deliver fluid through a flexibleor rigid line 504, e.g., based on a pump or available fluid pressure(e.g., water pressure available from a conventional water supplysystem). The embodiments of FIGS. 7 and 8 may have particular utility indelivering fluids to elderly patients and/or patients with swallowingand/or mouth-related issues. As exemplified by the illustrativeembodiments of FIGS. 7 and 8, the flow control mechanisms/devices of thepresent disclosure are not limited in application todelivering/controlling fluid flow from a vessel/container/bottle or thelike. Rather, the disclosed flow control devices have wide rangingapplications.

Thus, the present disclosure provides advantageous flow controlmechanisms/devices that are easily assembled and easily used. Thedisclosed flow control mechanisms/devices dispense with the screwthreads associated with prior control devices/systems, therebyincreasing sealing properties, facilitating one-handed motion, andproviding predefined opening/flow levels (e.g., based on the geometryand/or spacing of valley regions as described herein). The disclosedflow control mechanisms/devices permit axial translation between “open”and “closed” configurations, while maintaining structural integritythrough the provision of stop(s) at the respective travel ends thereof.Locking mechanisms may be provided to releasably lock the disclosed flowcontrol device in a “closed” configuration until such time as a userdesires to release the flow control mechanism/device from such lockedorientation. Adapters may be provided to facilitate interaction betweenthe disclosed flow control mechanisms/devices andbottles/containers/vessels of differing designs and/or geometries.

In circumstances where the disclosed flow control mechanism may be usedto deliver fluid to a human or other animal, e.g., a dog, cat, rodent,ferret or the like, the material of construction for the ball isadvantageously selected to have a specific gravity that is greater thanthe specific gravity of the fluid to be dispensed therethrough. Byemploying a material having the foregoing specific gravity, operation ofthe ball is generally improved because ball does not “float” relative tothe fluid and is more susceptible to rotational motion based on forcesapplied by the animal's tongue.

Although flow control mechanisms of the present disclosure, e.g.,animal/pet drinking aids, have been described with reference toexemplary embodiments thereof, the present disclosure is not to belimited to the specifics of the disclosed embodiments, but is to bebroadly understood. The disclosed embodiments are merely illustrative,and not limitative, of the scope of the present invention, and changes,modifications and/or variations may be utilized without departing fromthe spirit or scope of the present invention.

1. A flow control device, comprising: (a) an inner cap member configuredand dimensioned to be mounted with respect to a fluid container, saidinner cap member including a base and a substantially cylindricalextension defining a flow passage; (b) an overcap member movably mountedwith respect to said inner cap member; and (c) a ball captured betweensaid overcap member and said inner cap member, said ball being sized toobstruct fluid passage through said flow passage of said inner capmember; wherein a variable flow clearance may be established by axialmovement of said overcap member relative to said inner cap member.
 2. Aflow control device according to claim 1, wherein said substantiallycylindrical extension defines a plurality of inwardly directed annularridges and at least one valley region therebetween.
 3. A flow controldevice according to claim 2, wherein at least one of said plurality ofinwardly directed annular ridges is radiused.
 4. A flow control deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein said overcap member defines an annular rimprojection to facilitate grasping thereof for axial translation.
 5. Aflow control device according to claim 2, wherein said overcap memberdefines at least one inwardly directed annular projection that isadapted to interact with said plurality of inwardly directed ridges andsaid at least one valley region to control said variable flow clearance.6. A flow control device according to claim 5, wherein interactionbetween the at least one inwardly directed annular projection of theovercap member and said plurality of inwardly directed ridges and saidat least one valley region of said inner cap member provides sealingfunctionality.
 7. A flow control device according to claim 5, whereinsaid overcap member defines two axially spaced inwardly directed annularprojections.
 8. A flow control device according to claim 5, wherein saidat least one inwardly directed annular projection is radiused.
 9. A flowcontrol device according to claim 1, wherein said base element isknurled.
 10. A flow control device according to claim 1, furthercomprising an adapter to facilitate mounting of the flow control devicerelative to a fluid container.
 11. A flow control device according toclaim 1, further comprising a releasable locking mechanism forpreventing axial translation of the overcap member relative to the innercap member.
 12. A flow control device according to claim 11, wherein thereleasable locking mechanism includes a plurality of slotted openingsformed in the base of the inner cap member.
 13. A flow control deviceaccording to claim 12, wherein the releasable locking mechanism furtherincludes a plurality of downwardly extending legs that define tabs forreleasable engagement with the slotted openings formed in the base. 14.A flow control device according to claim 11, wherein the releasablelocking mechanism is moved between a locked and an unlockedconfiguration by rotation of the overcap member relative to the innercap member.
 15. A flow control device according to claim 11, wherein thereleasable locking mechanism includes legs extending upwardly from thebase element of the inner cap member that are adapted to releasablyengage openings formed in the overcap member.
 16. A flow control deviceaccording to claim 11, wherein the releasable locking mechanism includeslegs extending radially outward from the inner cap member that areadapted to releasable engage the over cap member.
 17. A flow controldevice according to claim 16, wherein at least one of the legs extendingradially outward from the inner cap member is adapted to engage anopening or a depression formed in the overcap member.
 18. A flow controldevice according to claim 16, wherein at least one of the legs extendingradially outward from the inner cap member is associated with an annularridge formed on the inner cap member, and wherein the at least one legis adapted to engage an annular projection defined by the overcapmember.
 19. A flow control device according to claim 11, wherein thereleasable locking mechanism is released by squeezing the overcapmember.
 20. A flow controld device according to claim 11, wherein thereleasable locking mechanism is released by applying an additional axialforce to the upper cap member to overcome the releasable lockingmechanism and to effect axial translation of the overcap member relativeto the inner cap member.
 21. A flow control device according to claim 1,wherein axial translation of the overcap member relative to the innercap member is effective to provide at least one of an audible or tactilesignal of the relative position thereof.
 22. A flow control deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein the base element of the inner cap memberis mounted with respect to at least one of a vessel, a container, abottle, an assembly that delivers fluid based on gravity feed, anassembly that delivers fluid based on a pump force, a stalk, a tube, ora fluid source.
 23. A flow control device according to claim 1, whereinat least one of said overcap member and said inner cap member isfabricated by a two-shot molding process so as to introduce a sealingmaterial thereto.